Experience the best of
Kyoto with Withlocals

"This was a special experience to have a guide all by yourself and with so much flexibility. Tiro guided us around so smoothly, so all we did was enjoy the area without looking at the map or reading the guide book. He told us most interesting facts and stories, which we enjoyed very very much. During the tour we had a deliciouis snack. Three hours passed soo quickly, but without any further dues Tiro showed us all what he planned. We enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and we loved the seven rule quize. We keep it in mind as we go, especially the last one :) We are very greatful for this experience and we highly recommend Tiro for the tour. Afterwards ( and even before we arrived to Kyoto), he gave us further recommendations on food, which turned out to be delicious. Last, but not last, during the tour we got lucky to see maiko on the street. "

" Shohei was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic sharing the Japan experience with us. "

"This tour was fantastic! Eiji made the experience exceptional, and I would recommend him to anyone considering this tour. For the Nishiki Market portion of the tour, Eiji recommended the foods and we had the ability to decline and try something different. We chose to take his recommendations and try the things he thought we would enjoy. He focused on the shops that had been in the market for a very long time and not the new pop-up tourist trap stalls. He took a ton of pictures for us as we tried the different things. He also explained the origin/history of the foods we were trying. Part two of the tour was even better! Eiji took us to several different shrines and explained the rituals that are performed by those who worship at the shrines. He walked us through areas in Gion and pointed out things we never would have known or never would have seen. He gave us an education into things that we were interested in learning but didn't expect to get from this tour. This was by far one of the best tours I have taken in many years of traveling. When I go back to Kyoto, I will book a tour with him again! Thank you Eiji for making this a wonderful time for us. "

"We asked Eiji to put together a tour that would help us better understand what life is like in Kyoto for Japanese locals who live away from the tourist attractions. What an amazing experience! The tour was focused on his neighborhood in northeastern Kyoto where he has lived for many years. It was one of those experiences which is made up of a series of small moments that come together to create something special. Be sure to ask him to take you to his favorite ramen noodle place - so good and so cool. The tour gave us a deeper appreciation of Japanese culture and what it means to be a part of a community in Kyoto. Don't miss this unique opportunity."

"Great day with Ted. Very informative and great food choices. Highly highly recommend!"

"We had a great time with Ahmed, and was a great source of knowledge for us. Tour was well paced, and he was happy to take our pictures at various spots along the tour. Additionally, he gave us recommendations for the other sights we should see after the tour was finished."

"We had the absolute pleasure of doing a guided tour of Kyoto with Eiji, and I can’t recommend him enough. From the very beginning, he was incredibly warm, kind, and welcoming — the kind of person who instantly makes you feel at ease. He’s extremely knowledgeable and shared so many fascinating stories and historical insights about Kyoto that really brought the city to life. What stood out the most was how thoughtful and patient he was with us throughout the entire experience. Eiji went out of his way to take so many beautiful photos of us along the way — such a kind gesture — and even sent them afterward to us, which meant the world to us. It’s little things like that which make a guide truly special. Overall, Eiji is not only an amazing guide but a genuinely lovely person. We were so grateful to have met him and will remember this day fondly. Thank you, Eiji!"

"She was very informative and she knew a lot of hidden secrets about Kyoto. Also went to really cool Japanese sword shop. Had food a great restaurant and walked a lot and enjoyed every minute."

"As soon as you meet Tiro you can see he is a nice person, very comfortable in his role as guide. He also has huge passion for Japanese history and culture. We had a great afternoon and learned so much. It is a wonderful thing to do and you can see that there is such a difference between a personalised tour versus ambling around yourself "

"Great expierience ! Great insides to Japan from an outsider. D'ont hesitate : book"